Hotel Highlights

Contemporary, comfortable neutral tones

Incredible views of rural Tuscany

Enjoy lazy days in the leafy garden and by the pool

Overview

A boutique hotel in Tuscany, Villa Sassolini is the perfect marriage of contemporary chic and historic charm. With heart-stopping views over the Tuscan hills from its village perch, bright and spacious rooms decorated with precision and attention to detail, it is a tranquil hideaway in the heart of Chiantishire.

Facilities

Need To Know

Rooms

Check–out

Rates

More details

Rates include a buffet breakfast with hot egg dishes; guests can help themselves to free soft drinks and bottled water from the minibar.

Hotel closed

7 January to 12 March.

At the hotel

TV, free WiFi throughout. Guests can use the villa’s mountain bikes for excursions.

Our favourite rooms

The Marrakech room has fantastic views over the pool. The A Caccia suite has its own balcony and is decorated with hunting prints and has views of the wild hills of Chianti.

Poolside

The 10m unheated outdoor pool is on a panoramic terrace looking out over formal gardens. A light lunch is served by the pool between 12.30pm and 2.30pm.

Children

Cots are free for under-twos; extra beds are €20 in low season, €40 at other times. The hotel can arrange babysitting (€20 an hour) and child-friendly meals.

Food & Drink

◐View Gallery

Hotel Restaurant

The hotel’s seasonal menu presents a modern take on fresh, traditional Tuscan ingredients, such as Chianina beef and wind-cured ham.

Hotel Bar

Open from 12 noon to 2am, the bar is on the pretty poolside terrace: sip on a George 'n' Roses (vodka, lemon juice, rose syrup and maraschino cherries) or a refreshing Hendrick's and home-made limoncello with your toes in the water.

Room service

The restaurant menu is available from 7.30am to 10pm. An early breakfast can be provided. Both the restaurant and the bar are closed on Sunday evenings.

Smith Insider

Dress code

Chianti chic.

Top table

In good weather, it's hard to beat a candlelit dinner on the terrace by the swimming pool.

Local Guide

Worth getting out of bed for

Villa Sassolini’s lavender-fringed pool and romantic gardens certainly have their charms, but if you'd like to pick up a little Tuscan kitchen wizadry, request cookery lessons with the chef (must be booked one day in advance, by 6pm). Held in the spa building, the two-to-three-hour classes start at either 10am or 11am (for up to four guests), and you'll learn how to craft Italian staples such as handmade ravioli and gnocchi, tomato and bolognese sauce and pastries. This tranquil corner of Tuscany has plenty to offer active types, too. Take a pleasant walk through the surrounding woods or borrow a bike to meander down country lanes. Nearby, the English-run Rendola Riding Stables (+39 0559 707 045) offers lessons, short hacks and Chianti tours; experienced riders can visit abbeys, vineyards and Romanesque churches on horseback. Further afield, the bucolic towns of Radda and Greve are a must-visit for wine lovers. A 20-minute drive away, the 11th-century Castello di Brolio(+39 0577 7301) is one of the oldest wine producers in the world; sample Chianti Classico and take a stroll through the delightful Italian gardens. Temptingly, the Prada outlet near Arezzo is just a 15-minute drive away; if you’re left with any spare luggage space after a jaunt there, Leccio’s sprawling The Mall is a good place to stock up on discounted Gucci, Pucci and Ferragamo.

Local restaurants

Osteria Locanda II Canto del Maggio in Terranuova (+39 0559 705 147) is a family-run restaurant set in a wild garden, famous for its goose pappardelle and home-made desserts. Fontebussi on Borgo di Fontebussi in Cavriglia (+39 055 916 811) serves traditional Tuscan dishes and has great views from the terrace. Osteria di Starda, in Starda Castle in Gaiole (+39 0577 734 100) is set in the vaulted cellars and has a traditional menu.

Villa Sassolini

In the tiny, charming village of Moncioni, a 15-minute drive from Montevarchi, Villa Sassolini overlooks a picturesque valley of undulating Tuscan hills.

Planes

The closest airport is Florence, an hour away by car. For more choice, Pisa, Perugia and Bologna airports are only half an hour further. From Pisa airport, you can take a two-hour train (changing in Florence) to the nearby station San Giovanni Valdarno, from which a 20-minute taxi ride will take you to the villa.

Trains

San Giovanni Valdarno station is a 20-minute drive from Villa Sassolini. Direct trains from here reach Florence in 50 minutes and Arezzo and Siena in half an hour. For information on trains in Italy, see Trenitalia (www.trenitalia.com).

Automobiles

Villa Sassolini is located 20 minutes from the A1, Italy’s main North–South motorway. You’ll need to take the Montevarchi exit and then follow signs for Pestello and San Tomme, continuing through these towns and straight on until you reach Moncioni. Perfectly situated between Florence and Siena (50 minutes by car to either), the hotel's within easy driving distance of several towns on the Tuscan trail; San Gimignano, Montepulciano, Pienza and Arezzo are all 45–90 minutes away.

Reviews

Anonymous review

For the first time in my life, when I get off the plane in Florence, I walk through customs and straight past the baggage-carousel area. For a woman who loves and lives fashion, this is a great accomplishment – I have packed my whole weekend into a carry-on (ladies, take note: gold flip-flops will save you packing endless shoes in summer, since you can dress them up or down). I feel like my …

Villa Sassolini

Anonymous review by Casey Gorman, Luxury accessories expert

For the first time in my life, when I get off the plane in Florence, I walk through customs and straight past the baggage-carousel area. For a woman who loves and lives fashion, this is a great accomplishment – I have packed my whole weekend into a carry-on (ladies, take note: gold flip-flops will save you packing endless shoes in summer, since you can dress them up or down). I feel like my old, breezy Californian self once again, travelling short-haul for a relaxed weekend away, with few wardrobe rules to worry about.

It is 3pm when we arrive at the Villa Sassolini in the hills of Tuscany. The charming hotel manager, Andrea, comes to meet us at the gate of what appears to be a village monastery hiding behind a strong stucco façade. Mr Smith remarks that Andrea has an air of Lex Luther about him. It might be fair to say that his levels of passion are comparable to the comic-book villain but, rather than obsessing about global domination, Andrea’s focus is clearly to ensure the world is a better place – especially for guests at Villa Sassolini.

As we enter the lobby, it feels as though no one is home, and that we’re the only guests here. We tread the slate-coloured wooden floors that run throughout, past a spacious living room with a fireplace, books and oversized lampshades. The low yellow lighting enhances a pervading sense of calm. There is a small reception, but the greeting at the gate counted as check-in.

Andrea shows us to our room on the top floor, helping with Mr Smith’s bulky baggage while I saunter up the stairs with my carry-on. Mr Smith notes that, though we have a lounge and bedroom with beautiful old white-painted beams, what we don’t have is a bathtub. Without so much as a whiff of irritation, Andrea lumbers himself with Mr Smith’s luggage once again and takes us off to another room on yet another floor. Our new abode has a lovely four-poster bed, fresco-painted ceiling, grey walls and a bathroom large enough to house a whole family – with a beautiful, oversized bath in the middle of it.

With the heat absolutely scorching at 30 degrees, the pool beckons. I am reminded of my childhood in the Californian valley, where pools were more important than passports. Having had to adjust to leisure-centre versions in London, it is a joy to swim outdoors again. We’ve come straight from the airport, with no lunch pitstop, so we are starving: Andrea, who is nothing short of a miracle-worker, whips together a plate of cheeses, pears, honey and rolls, while we have a cooling splash about.

It’s such a beautiful night that we decide to eat outside again at sunset. There are two options at Villa Sassolini: inside is a softly lit dining hall near the tower, with a vaulted ceiling and a wine cellar; outside there’s a honeysuckle-framed garden full of overgrown rosemary and lavender bushes. We choose a garden table, where my handbag is even given its own pedestal – how nice to be in a hotel where the staff anticipate the whims of a fashionista. The food is gorgeous, but beware: don’t fill your belly on the tasty traditional Tuscan fare. Make sure you save room for the homemade puddings – namely the chocolate fondant and the cheesecake.

We’re back in the garden once more for breakfast and to plan our day out. Nothing is too far, but nothing is quite on the doorstep either, so a car is crucial; taxis aren’t really an option out here. We begin with a stop at the local Prada outlet. There are lots of charming hilltop mediaeval villages to visit, but shopping is taken just as seriously as heritage around here. (We pull in to a petrol station on the way to check where we’re going and, without prompting, a serviceman approaches us and says, ‘Next light, left and left again.’ Three shopping bags later, I realise my hand-luggage-only approach might not work for the return journey.

Our next foray is to Badia a Coltibuono, an old monastery and vineyard where we enjoy a light lunch with a stunning view of the hills and valleys. It is clearly marked on the tourist map, though, and in high season we feel like dots in the crowd, so we set off on a mission to seek out a rather more intimate wine-tasting experience. At our first stop, Monterotondo, the owner gives us a private tour of the cool cellar and a broken-English explanation of his wines. We’re no connoisseurs and, after several tastings, we have to confess that everything tastes like a glass of Canaletto Primitivo. When Mr Smith points out that a particular vintage tastes a bit like Um Bongo, I take it as a sure sign that it is time to go back to the hotel.

As we say farewell to Sassolini, I realise that the place has caused me to reconsider exactly what accommodation means. This is a small hotel with a relaxed ethos and wonderful service, whose atmosphere serves as a valuable reminder that a holiday in Tuscany is best enjoyed unhurriedly. I see the region as a little like my home of Napa Valley, but quainter and more personal. And I have yet to find a hotel as unique in style and personality as Villa Sassolini in the Californian wine country. Our break doesn’t end with the simple pleasure it began with: at Gatwick, I stand by the carousel waiting for my luggage, smiling in the knowledge that I am returning laden with rewards both sartorial and spiritual.

The Guestbook

Whenever you book a stay at a Smith hotel with us, we'll invite you to review it when you get back. Read what other Smith members had to say in Villa Sassolini's Guestbook below.

Herwin

BlackSmith

Stayed on
18 Oct 2014

We loved

I liked the decor design of the hotel, quality of dinner, friendliness of staff.

Don’t expect

Better signposting would be good, though being discrete and hidden gem is also a positive.

Rating:
9/10 stars

Fiona

BlackSmith

Stayed on
19 Sep 2014

We loved

We liked EVERYTHING! I literally cannot find fault with the fabulous Villa Sassolini. We hired a car and drove from Florence to the villa (approx 40 mins). We didn't have GPS and found it relatively easily, but if you are a nervous driver or don't want the hassle of map reading etc then get GPS. The drive once you get into the hills is lovely with amazing views. On (early) arrival we were met by the wonderful manager, Andre, who advised that our room was ready for check in which we were extremely happy with. Our mood was only improved when we saw how beautiful the villa was and our room - rustic chic with four poster bed, chez-lounge, massive shower bathroom and beautiful toiletries and two amazing views of the rolling Tuscan countryside and hotel perfectly appointed grounds. The whole hotel is beautifully decorated. The grounds have a swimming pool (small but refreshing and clean), lovely gardens with loungers and tables and chairs - perfect for lazing with a book or game. Lunch and drinks can be served which are all very tasty (more of that later). We were only there for two nights but in that time we truly relaxed- our days sent walking in the surrounding hills, going wine tasting in the local vineyard or lazing by the pool. On to the food at Villa Sassolini. I count myself as a food lover and was extremely impressed with the quality and variety available here. The lunch menu was a few pasta dishes and salads but between the two of us we pretty much sampled all of this menu and they were all lovely and extremely filling. Dinner was amazing. We went for the tasting menu each night, first evening fish, second meat and they were both exemplary and still think it was the best food I have had in Italy. I also do not think it was expensive for the amount and quality you receive (first night 50euro for 6 courses I think and 35euro for 4 courses in the second night). As expected from the Chianti region the wine here is delicious, even the house wine. All the staff were lovely, helpful and attentive. I am not often sad to leave a place, especially if I am continuing with my travels, but I was truly sad to leave the Villa Sassolini and would definitely come back to explore this beautiful area some more.

Don’t expect

Be prepared to drive everywhere (the village is cute but v, v small and you need to drive to explore) or higher a taxi if you want to sample the beautiful wine.

Rating:
10/10 stars

Mike

BlackSmith

Stayed on
15 Sep 2014

We loved

I loved the setting and views from our lovely room overlooking the Tuscan valleys, with fabulous sunrises. Subtle modern refurbishment of a classic Tuscan villa with tasteful furnishings and a beautiful bathroom. Good food and attentive service; very friendly welcome and nothing too much trouble.

Don’t expect

I thought the storage arrangements in the cupboards could've been better.

Robbie

We loved

I loved everything! Style, attention to detail, welcoming staff that could not do enough for you, superb food… overall, fantastic.

Don’t expect

I would've liked additional products, as I found them a little short for two people.

Rating:
10/10 stars

Leanne

BlackSmith

Stayed on
11 Aug 2014

We loved

We had a lovely five-day minimoon at Villa Sassolini; it is the perfect place to relax after a wedding. The kitchen was really accomodating and made us a different vegetarian dish each evening as the main menu was mostly meat.

Don’t expect

There is nothing within walking distance from the hotel, which suited us becuase we wanted to relax at the hotel and by the pool, but is not for everyone.

Rating:
10/10 stars

Chris

BlackSmith

Stayed on
30 Jun 2014

We loved

The location, the warm welcome, the atmosphere, accommodation and cuisine ticked all the boxes - a perfect bolthole with very attentive staff.

Don’t expect

This is nit picking really, but I did mention to the management that they might consider fitting some simple shelving into the enormous wardrobe in our room which would have enabled us to decant our clothes from our case onto shelves thus avoiding having to literally live out of a suitcase. I believe the provision of such shelving is relevant for anything longer than an overnight stay.

Rating:
9/10 stars

Robert

BlackSmith

Stayed on
22 Apr 2014

We loved

Neil

BlackSmith

Stayed on
4 Aug 2013

We loved

I liked the total relaxation. The food is excellent at the hotel and the service of the staff is first class. George was the best waiter, manager, driver and advisor we've ever had on a holiday! The location was excellent for the Chianti region. I would firmly recommend the Mall for shopping. The interior design of the hotel was nothing short of exceptional – well thought-out and perfect for the chilled-out vibe of the hotel. Well done; we'll be back.

Don’t expect

For what we wanted, nothing could be better. We wanted chilled-out fun and it delivers everyday!

Rating:
10/10 stars

Martha

BlackSmith

Stayed on
5 Jun 2013

We loved

The hotel was absolutely magical; Andrea and the team were so attentive, and the rooms gorgeous. While it is a bit of a trek to find, it was well worth it. Nestled away from any disruption and very peaceful our party had two pool-facing rooms with sweeping views of the Tuscan countryside. If you are seeking R 'n' R in a tranquil setting, this is for you. A dream! Note: Parking was not a problem as there is a parking area just outside the hotel gate.

Don’t expect

Venturing out to dinner in the evening was not an easy option. Driving through unfamiliar winding roads in the dark is difficult, and means the driver can not enjoy the local wine. Taxi quotes for a 10-minute drive came in at €60–80, which meant we stayed put in the evening. However, on the second night Andrea and his team brought in special items requested by our party and prepared them well, so we did not feel like we had missed out on variety.

Rating:
10/10 stars

Nicholas

BlackSmith

Stayed on
23 May 2013

We loved

Service was faultless – even though we arrived very late the manager was able to conjure up some food.

Don’t expect

Very difficult to say!

Rating:
9/10 stars

Patrick

BlackSmith

Stayed on
3 May 2013 Not a place suited for children, but for couples going for a romantic retreat.

We loved

The professionalism, the hospitality, the good food and the beautiful panoramic views!

Don’t expect

We missed a bit the local touch: the music playing in the restaurant and outside at the pool is Buddha bar CD music and the pictures in the rooms were Greek landscapes with white island houses.

Rating:
8/10 stars

Price information

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